Perfusion Basic Science Exam
The Perfusion Basic Science Exam (PBSE) is a standardized assessment designed to evaluate the foundational knowledge and competence of individuals pursuing a career in cardiovascular perfusion. It serves several key purposes:
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Credentialing: Successful completion of the PBSE is often a requirement for obtaining certification as a certified clinical perfusionist (CCP). It is an essential step in the certification process and demonstrates that candidates have acquired the necessary knowledge to practice safely and effectively in the field.
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Quality Assurance: The PBSE helps ensure that perfusionists have a strong understanding of the fundamental principles of perfusion science and technology. This contributes to the quality and safety of cardiac surgery procedures involving extracorporeal circulation.
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Let's go over some PBSE practice questions.
1
Which of the following is responsible for maintaining blood pressure by regulating the volume of blood pumped by the heart?
a) Aorta
b) Ventricles
c) Arterioles
d) Veins
2
What is the primary gas exchange site in the lungs where oxygen enters the bloodstream and carbon dioxide is removed?
a) Bronchi
b) Trachea
c) Alveoli
d) Bronchioles
3
Which blood component is responsible for transporting oxygen to the body's tissues?
a) Red blood cells
b) White blood cells
c) Plasma
d) Platelets
4
Which of the following is a potential complication during cardiopulmonary bypass resulting from air bubbles in the circuit?
a) Hypoxia
b) Hypotension
c) Thrombosis
d) Embolism
5
Which of the following is NOT a primary function of the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgery?
a) Oxygenate the blood
b) Remove carbon dioxide from the blood
c) Maintain blood pressure
d) Regulate body temperature
6
Which of the following factors can significantly affect oxygen delivery during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB)?
a) Blood pressure
b) Hematocrit level
c) Body temperature
d) Electrolyte balance
7
What is the primary goal of retrograde cardioplegia during cardiac surgery?
a) Maintaining a stable heart rate
b) Improving pulmonary circulation
c) Cooling the myocardium
d) Providing continuous oxygenation
8
During cardiopulmonary bypass, what is the primary reason for administering a hyperosmolar solution such as mannitol?
a) To reduce blood viscosity
b) To prevent blood clot formation
c) To increase cardiac output
d) To protect against cerebral edema
9
Which of the following conditions may require extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support?
a) Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
b) Atrial fibrillation
c) Peripheral vascular disease
d) Aortic stenosis
10
In pediatric cardiac surgery, what is the primary challenge associated with managing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB)?
a) Blood clot formation
b) Hypothermia
c) Hemodilution
d) Ventricular arrhythmias
Answer Key
1. B
2. C
3. A
4. D
5. C
6. B
7. C
8. D
9. A
10. C